A Hidden Gem of the Paddling Season

When most people think of kayaking, they picture the height of summer. Warm July afternoons and August sunsets tend to dominate the paddling calendar. But seasoned paddlers know that September quietly delivers the most rewarding experiences on the water. The combination of weather, wildlife, scenery, and solitude makes it the true sweet spot for kayaking adventures.

Comfortable Weather and Water Conditions

September strikes a perfect balance between summer’s heat and autumn’s chill. Days are often still warm enough for light clothing, but without the humidity and scorching sun of July and August. Evenings cool down just enough to refresh you after a paddle.

The real secret, though, is in the water itself. Lakes and rivers retain the warmth they’ve built up over the summer, which means you can still enjoy a comfortable swim if you’re the type to dip in along the way. This warmth stretches the paddling season longer than most expect. Always check your local waterway temperatures before jumping in, though!

For tips on how to safely enjoy cooler-season paddling, check out our guide: Your Guide to Fall Paddling.

Spectacular Scenery and Wildlife Encounters

Nature begins its gradual shift in September. Trees along the shoreline hint at fall colours, adding pops of red, gold, and orange to your backdrop. The air takes on a crisp clarity, sharpening reflections across calm lakes and rivers.

Wildlife is especially active during this time. You might spot flocks of Canada geese and other migratory birds making their way south. Herons, ospreys, and kingfishers are busy feeding before their journeys. Sometimes, you even get rare sightings. A few years ago, while paddling the Mississippi River near Galetta, we saw a great egret in September, the first and only time we’ve encountered one in the region. Experiences like this remind you that every September paddle has the potential for surprise!

Peaceful and Less Crowded

By September, summer vacationers have returned to their routines. Campgrounds, launch sites, and waterways suddenly feel wide open. This means fewer crowds, more parking, and quieter routes where you can savour the sounds of water and nature. For many, the calmness of September paddling is a welcome contrast to the bustle of peak summer.

Perfect for Reflection and Reset

September carries a natural sense of transition. With school back in session and routines settling in, getting out on the water provides the perfect way to recharge. Kayaking in this season isn’t just about adventure; it’s about reflection. The quiet atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it easier to pause, breathe, and reset before the busy months of fall and winter.

Extend Your Season

Best of all, September doesn’t signal the end of kayaking. With the right gear, paddlers can stretch their season well into October and even November. Layering with neoprene, lightweight jackets, dry bags for essentials, and thermoses of hot drinks can turn a cool September day into one of the most memorable paddles of the year!

Key Takeaway: While summer may get the spotlight, September is when kayaking truly shines. With comfortable weather, warm water, colourful scenery, active wildlife, and fewer crowds, it offers the perfect mix of comfort, beauty, and peace on the water.